The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s resolve to use education as a cornerstone for building a professionally competent, adaptable, and future-ready military force.
Speaking at the 67th Passing Out Parade of the Nigeria Military School (NMS) in Zaria on Saturday, Oluyede—represented by Maj.-Gen. Mayirenso Saraso, General Officer Commanding 1 Division—said the Army is strategically investing in the academic and professional development of its personnel.
“In the Nigerian Army, we are sponsoring soldiers to further their studies in reputable civilian universities and colleges across the country,” he noted. “Ex-NMS boys are among the most outstanding beneficiaries of this scheme. It reflects our commitment to producing a well-educated, highly skilled, and forward-thinking Nigerian Army.”
The COAS urged the newly graduated cadets to value the unique educational foundation provided by the NMS and to embrace a lifelong commitment to learning, discipline, and service.
He revealed that the Army provides welfare and career development opportunities, including a pathway for graduates to gain admission into the prestigious Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA). According to him, the preliminary military training and academic orientation at NMS give its graduates a distinct advantage in meeting NDA’s admission criteria.
Oluyede also highlighted his command philosophy, anchored on readiness, operational effectiveness, sound administration, and stakeholder cooperation—underpinned by the “Soldier First” concept, which prioritises the welfare and morale of personnel.
The event was attended by Maj.-Gen. Abdul-Khalifa Ibrahim, Commandant of the NDA, alongside traditional and religious leaders, signalling the collaborative role of community and institutional support in nurturing the next generation of military leaders.
For the Nigerian Army, education is not only a pathway to professional excellence but also a vital instrument in shaping disciplined, knowledgeable, and socially responsible soldiers capable of meeting modern defence challenges.
EduTimes Africa, a product of Education Times Africa, is a magazine publication that aims to lend its support to close the yawning gap in Africa's educational development.